Granted, small dogs can only make small messes. But you’ll pay the same carpet cleaning costs to do the room with urine stains whether it’s made by a Chihuahua or a Doberman. Small dogs need the same dog potty training basics as any dog.

You have to remember that their size might work against them in that their tiny bladders won’t hold as much (or for as long) if you’re late coming home for their potty break. Small dogs don’t mind living in apartments or homes without big yards. They only need a little spot to do their business, so a flower bed might be enough room. But they still need to receive dog potty training.

Some people make fun of little dogs in their knit sweaters, but it’s more than just a fashion statement. During the winter months in cold climates, the change from heated indoors to freezing outdoors is very harsh on a small dog’s body.

The sudden chill can also distract them from the potty business and cause them to run back inside. Once warm again, the urge hits and there’s nowhere to go but the rug. You can make this easier on your small dog by getting him a warm sweater for cold weather.

Some small dogs will not budge off their hind legs until they see the sweater in your hands. Your small dog may totally refuse to go outdoors in rain or cold, even with a sweater on.

You have to plan options. Perhaps you can keep a papered box in the garage as a backup potty during bad weather. Only use this for limited times during the year so that you don’t discourage the dog from going outside to his regular potty spots.

If your small dog goes outdoors in a yard or in the park, be alert as to where he’s walking. Keep your dog away from tall grass or bushes. While he’s busy trying to sniff out the right spot, he’s easy prey for snakes in tall grass.

Owners of small dogs can become insensitive to their neighbors. Just because the feces is small, it’s still dog poop. Pick it up - your neighbor didn’t contract with your for fertilizer.

Not to mention that dog poop on their shoes may not be visible until it’s tracked onto the carpet. That won’t win you an invitation to the neighbor’s next bar-b-q. It’s your responsibility to clean up after your dog. Don’t try to get out of it by arguing that it’s so small it doesn’t matter. It matters to anyone who doesn’t own it.

Dog potty training at home for small dogs is the same as for large dogs. You can begin with crate training and frequent breaks until a routine is established. Some small dogs can be temperamental because many are spoiled lap dogs. That’s where the positive reinforcement of your praise and affection is even stronger - when it’s so important to your dog to please you.